WhatsApp has begun releasing a new Android beta version, version 2.26.1.18. This WhatsApp beta update will be released to you soon, as long as you belong to the beta program. This update lacks any significant design changes, though it provides a minor feature that simplifies and streamlines group chats. This, as well as the update, is being implemented gradually; thus, not all people will see it simultaneously.
In this article, we will see that this WhatsApp beta update is more dedicated to the enhancement of the interaction within groups.
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WhatsApp beta 2.26.1.18 on Android is new: What is in the news?
The primary feature of this WhatsApp beta version is another group member option. In group chats, there is a member tag feature that is visible to some users after updating. This allows you to include a small group tag or label to your name. This label assists others in knowing what you are or what your purpose is in such a group. At present, this is only accessible to a few beta users. WhatsApp is experimenting with it in stages to examine its utilization by people.
Member Tags in group chats: How they function.
Once you have installed this WhatsApp beta update, you can look at the Member Tag feature in supported group chats. You are required to open a group, tap the group name, and tap the group info page. The list of members will appear there. Below your name, you can have an option of adding a member tag. Write something in a short word or a line that defines you. This tag will be displayed beside your name in such a group after you have saved it. It is simple and easy to use.
It is common to have a large number of people in group chats, and at times, it is difficult to tell who does what. This is a new WhatsApp beta that fixes that issue in an uncomplicated manner. Member Tags allow users to demonstrate their role. As an example, in one of the study groups, one can add “Notes Helper”.
Member Tag feature is visible to whom?
This feature will not be immediately visible to all the beta users. New tools are typically introduced gradually by WhatsApp. This is a WhatsApp beta update release that can be offered to a few testers in the initial phase. Others will have to wait days or weeks. The feature might not be instant upon updating. This is normal. WhatsApp achieves this to perfection the testing and correcting minor bugs before releasing it to the masses.
Checking whether you got this update or not.
In order to access this WhatsApp beta update release, you must be enrolled in the Android beta program, and you have to install 2.26.1.18. Upon update, restart the app once. Then open any group chat and view the group info page. In case of the Member Tag option, you can use it. If not, you just need to wait. The functionality will be automatic when WhatsApp opens it to your account.
The chats, calls, and privacy cannot be altered by this WhatsApp beta update. It does not have the new button or changes in layout. It primarily deals with group enhancement. WhatsApp usually releases a single feature every time it does a beta update. Greater changes tend to come in the future. Thus, in case you were expecting new themes or big settings, this update is not about them.
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The reason why WhatsApp is testing in beta.
WhatsApp has been relying on the WhatsApp beta update to release novel ideas to all users before launching them. This makes them know whether a feature is viable or not. It is a good example of this WhatsApp beta update. Member Tags sound easy, and WhatsApp would like to observe the way people use them. Users who like it would be provided with an improved feature and eventually included in the stable version. WhatsApp can correct issues at an initial stage in case of issues.
In case this feature can be provided to everyone.
The public release does not have a definite date. Generally, a feature that is successful in beta is available to everybody within a few weeks or months. This is the latest WhatsApp beta update release, which is in the process of testing. After WhatsApp is sure of it, Member Tag can be included in the regular application update. Meanwhile, it can only be tested by beta users.
Final Thought
The Android version of WhatsApp beta update 2.26.1.18 has a very minor yet useful modification to group chats. The Member Tag feature is a new feature that assists users in indicating their position within groups. It facilitates easier and organized conversations. The feature is also being introduced progressively, and thus patience is required. In general, this update demonstrates that WhatsApp is addressing minor changes that would help to make daily chatting more convenient and efficient.
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